The Waldo Area Historical Society will host the second annual Waldo Sweet Potato Festival on Saturday, Sept. 12.
The free event will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Waldo City Square (14450 NE 148th Ave.).
The family-friendly event celebrates Waldo’s agricultural heritage, local history and community. Organizers created the festival to support the Waldo community and establish a lasting tradition rooted in the area’s history.
Historical horticulturist T.K. Godbey grew sweet potatoes in the Waldo area, providing a historical connection to the festival and the community’s agricultural heritage.
Approximately 800 people attended last year’s inaugural festival, and organizers expect an even larger crowd this year.
Festival activities will include craft vendors, food trucks, live music, children’s games, an obstacle-course bounce house, a Kid Zone, sweet potato grow kits, a street rod car display, a touch-a-truck and machinery display, a 50/50 raffle and other family-friendly activities.
Sweet Potato Dish Contest
Home cooks and young chefs can enter the free Sweet Potato Dish Contest. Trophies will be awarded in three divisions:
- Main dish
- Dessert
- Children younger than 12
Advance registration is not required. Contestants should bring their prepared dishes to the Council Meeting Building by 10:30 a.m. Saturday.
Vendor Applications
Craft, food and other vendors can apply through Friday, Sept. 11. Standard booth spaces are $25, while spaces with electrical access are $45.
Proceeds support local historic preservation projects and help the Waldo Area Historical Society host additional community events in Waldo.